INTERNATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITION

the library as a contemporary expression of the dialogue between local and global generates a welcoming and dynamic multiple space that creates an ambivalent feeling of familiarity, intimacy and sociality. the global network of knowledge establishes connections with the physical and spatial context in which the library is located.

the idea of a plurality of homogeneous courts constituting public space emerges in the milan’s urban history since the 15th century: when filarete’s major hospital named ca’ granda, was built continuously for almost 4 centuries. now ca’ granda is the venue of studies’ university of milan and constitutes a landmark in the urban history of milan. the local morphological grid derives from and modulates on depth of the existing residential buildings (10 ml), composing a cluster, with diversified functional, morphological, typological characteristics interrelated to the cultural program.

these urban courtyards defines a central open space, which becomes the matrix of the book depository and departmental towers.

the link between urban structure and place identity propagates to the library building as an expression of plurality and culture. so the library isn’t conceived and configured as a monument, but as an urban fabric and body, according to the modern milanese tradition.

the book archive is considered the compositional and functional centerpiece of the library: its huge spatial void is independently operated by machines and surrounded by a system of stairs and book distribution spaces.